For whatever reason, the Park Hyatt at Beaver Creek tends to run lower rates than comparable hotels at other resorts. Little Nell is a great choice at Aspen with comparable quality, location, as is St. Regis at Deer Valley. But I doubt you'll get under $1,000/night at either one. But for sure that's comparable, or better, to what you experienced at Beaver Creek.

In Aspen the Hyatt Grand might get you a better price and is close to Park Hyatt, about two blocks to lift. In Deer Valley, try either Chateaux or Goldener Hirsch to get good quality in more of a boutique hotel with great location in Silver Lake Village.

Have fun.

Viceroy at Snowmass has a lift outside its door that leads up to where the ski schools have many of their beginner classes. Lots of amenities --pool, hot tubs, etc. but I found the overall decor a bit cold. Westin is refurbished Silvertree Hotel. Many kinks early on but presume they're in full swing now.

Little Nell is fabulous but Aspen Mountain is not for beginners. Must be at least level 5 for lessons. Stay there and will need transport to Buttermilk (10 minutes) or Snowmass (20-25 minutes). Time traffic dependent.

Lots of beginners go to Vail but I hear them complain about the catwalks, which are part of beginner percentage, and lack of flat beginners slopes. I suggest Golden Peak lift, ski the top green runs, then take the chair down at end of day.